Racing and cricket success for Mark Waugh

Australian cricket selector Mark Waugh has had a big day at Randwick, snatching glimpses of the Test match in between deputising for his trainer wife Kim.

Uptown Lad, a horse he part-owns won the TAB.com.au (1400m) shortly before Mitch Marsh scored a century at the WACA in Perth after his controversial selection over Peter Handscomb.

“Good selection,” Waugh said.

Ridden by apprentice Jean Van Overmeire, Uptown Lad ( $5.50) came down the centre of the track to beat Savvan ($5.50) by a half length with Siren’s Fury ($17) another head third.

“He is an improving horse with a lovely big stride,” Waugh said.

“Kim is looking at the Provincial Championship with him.

“He looks the ideal horse for that.”

Uptown Lad has now won five of his 12 starts but came out of the gates slower than Van Overmeire had hoped.

“He was a touch slower today, I’m not sure the reason why. I didn’t panic,” he said.

“Kim’s done a great job with him and I really think he’ll step up the class and I think he’ll be pretty competitive.”